Kotak Education Foundation film highlights student resilience post COVID-19

New Delhi: Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) has released an impact film documenting the experiences of students supported through Kotak Shiksha Nidhi, an education assistance programme introduced following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The film was created to capture the emotional and personal journeys of students and their families, recognising that it was not possible to represent all beneficiaries in a single narrative. The foundation documented stories across four states, reflecting a range of regions, age groups and lived experiences. The project was produced in collaboration with a production house and directed by filmmaker Sarthak Dasgupta.

Commenting on the release of the film, Jaideep Hansraj, Whole Time Director (Executive Director) at Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, “The Kotak Shiksha Nidhi Impact Film is a salute to courage. Behind every frame is a young learner who refused to let loss define their future. Through timely financial support and holistic care including academic guidance, mental wellness, and life skills, we worked with the families as they rebuilt hope. This film reminds us why equitable access to education matters: because when support arrives at the right time, potential becomes possibility.”

Jayasree Ramesh, COO (Education) at Kotak Education Foundation, said, “At Kotak Education Foundation, we know that every child’s learning is precious and no crisis should stand in its way. Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was created with care and foresight, to protect the dreams of children facing unimaginable loss. This video shares their stories of resilience and courage, highlighting a pan-India movement that ensures every child can continue to learn, grow, and thrive.”

Kotak Shiksha Nidhi was launched on a pan-India basis to support students who lost one or both parents, or a primary earning family member, during the pandemic. The programme provided financial assistance to more than 1,500 students from Class 1 through graduation and diploma courses, covering ages six to 22, with annual support of up to Rs 2.5 lakh.

Beyond financial assistance, the programme included academic support, career guidance, analytical skills training, mental health and wellness counselling, and inputs in personality development and life skills. According to the foundation, this structure was intended to help students remain within the education system during a period of significant personal and financial disruption.

Several beneficiaries of the programme have since completed their education, pursued higher studies, secured internships, or entered full-time employment, contributing to improved financial stability within their families.

Kotak Education Foundation, which has worked in the education sector for over 18 years, focuses on school-level interventions, scholarships for higher education, and vocational and skills training for youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Kotak Shiksha Nidhi impact film can be viewed here: